Salem Housing Authority approves annual plan and adds veteran's preference

Affordable housing initiatives took center stage at the City of Salem Council meeting on July 14, 2025, as officials discussed plans to enhance homeownership options for residents. A key highlight was the proposal to adopt resolution number 2316, which includes the Salem Housing Authority's annual plan and a significant amendment to prioritize veterans in housing allocations.

During the meeting, Vice Chair Gwen moved to approve the annual Public Housing Authority (PHA) plan, emphasizing the importance of expanding affordable housing options in Salem. The discussion quickly shifted to an amendment proposed by Chair Nishioka, which aimed to include a veteran's preference in the scattered sites home dispositions. This amendment reflects a growing recognition of the need to support veterans in securing housing.

Commissioner Brown expressed support for the amendment but raised concerns about potentially overlooking other vulnerable groups. He urged the commission to consider additional preferences that could be included in future discussions. Miss Blakely, a key figure in the housing authority, confirmed that the commission has discretion over what preferences to include, indicating that there may be opportunities for further amendments down the line.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency to finalize the PHA plan, as officials acknowledged the importance of meeting upcoming deadlines. The adoption of the resolution, along with the veteran's preference amendment, marks a significant step towards addressing housing needs in Salem, particularly for those who have served in the military. As the city moves forward, stakeholders are hopeful that these initiatives will lead to increased access to affordable housing for all residents.